(RadioGraphics. 1981;1:35-60.)
© RSNA, 1981

Complications of intubation and catheterization in the neonatal intensive care unit

¹ Chairman, Department of Radiology, Oral Roberts University School of Medicine, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
² From the Department of Radiology and Pediatrics, University of Utah Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132.

Catheterization and intubation procedures are, almost invariably, essential to the management of infants in intensive care nurseries. Such procedures are infrequently associated with significant complications, but occasionally result in the perforation or thrombosis of vessels, or the perforation of a hollow viscus. It is important for the radiologist to recognize the manifestations of these complications to facilitate their management. It is even more important for him to recognize incorrect positioning of tubes and catheters that may predispose to such complications. Early recognition of the improper placement of a tube or catheter may permit its relocation before serious complications develop.